Picky Pups? Unconventional Dog Food Solutions

Dealing with a picky eater can be a real challenge for pet owners. Just like humans, dogs have their own preferences when it comes to food. Some might turn their noses up at certain textures or flavors, while others might have health issues that could make them more selective about what they eat. Luckily, several unconventional dog food options can entice your picky pet to finish their meals every time.

Dog Food Toppers

Dog food toppers are a flavorful addition to your picky eater’s bowl. They come in various forms, like chunky stews and crumbled freeze dried meats. Toppers are formulated to make your pup’s regular kibble more savory, palatable and digestible. 

When introducing toppers, start with a small amount to gauge your dog’s reaction—this helps prevent any digestive upset. Gradually increase the quantity until you find the perfect balance that tempts your pup without overwhelming their meal. For an extra boost in nutrition, look for toppers that include beneficial supplements such as probiotics or omega fatty acids. 

Bone Broth

Bone broth is a fantastic, tasty treat that can entice even the pickiest of pups to eat their meals. Rich in flavor, this nutrient-packed liquid is gentle on the stomach and appealing to many dogs, particularly those who may be turned off by dry or bland foods. 

To incorporate bone broth into your dog’s diet, simply pour a little over their usual kibble or mix it into their canned food. This enhances the flavor and adds moisture, which can benefit dogs struggling with hydration and digestion. 

Bone broth is rich in collagen and other joint-supporting nutrients, like glucosamine and chondroitin, making it especially great for older dogs. Plus, it’s easy to digest, which helps pups absorb their meals’ full nutritional value more efficiently.

Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food

Freeze dried raw dog food is an excellent choice to reinvigorate your dog’s interest in mealtime with its intense natural flavor. This food retains raw meat’s natural aromas and textures, which can be much more appealing to dogs than processed kibble or canned food. Freeze dried raw food is made by removing moisture from fresh raw ingredients under low temperatures, which preserves vital nutrients without the need for artificial preservatives.

Before adding freeze-dried recipes to your dog’s bowl, remember to rehydrate the food according to the package instructions. This will ensure your dog gets enough moisture in its diet and also make the kibble easier to chew. 

Serve Proteins

Beef, chicken, and turkey are standard dog foods’ most commonly used proteins. While these ingredients are tasty and highly nutritious, your dog may become bored with the same recipe served at every meal, leading to pickiness. Switching your dog’s meals to include protein sources can help stimulate your pup’s appetite. 

Proteins are those your dog hasn’t frequently encountered, such as wild-caught salmon, venison, rabbit or kangaroo. For example, wild-caught salmon dog food not only tempts with its rich, distinct flavor but also boasts high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. 

Venison, another excellent choice, is a lean, highly digestible protein source that’s great for maintaining muscle health and is often well-tolerated by dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Get Your Picky Pup Excited About Mealtime Again!

With a little creativity and patience, you can turn mealtime into a joyous occasion your dog looks forward to each day. Remember, the key is introducing new foods gradually and monitoring your dog’s response. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and textures until you find what tantalizes your pet’s taste buds.